Microsoft is polishing Windows 11 after releasing it last autumn. This is the first of many ongoing “feature updates” the operating system will receive.
During the pandemic, PC usage had surged, and hybrid work had become the new standard for many people all across the world. However, Windows 11 seemed like a familiar home in the midst of a major renovation; it wasn’t quite ready to take advantage of those changes. Microsoft is back with the Windows 11 2022 Update to make those updates feel more finished.
Over the past year, Microsoft has significantly enhanced Windows 11, to the point that upgrades now seem to come on a monthly basis. The Windows 11 2022 Update resolves many of the original issues I encountered with Microsoft’s initial OS release, and it has sufficiently improved sections that I have since switched my primary computer to Windows 11 after initially debating it. If you were hesitant to upgrade as well, the Windows 11 2022 Update may be the perfect opportunity to do so, provided that your PC is capable of running it.
Today’s release of the Windows 11 2022 Update brings with it a number of new and improved features, such as Start menu folders, enhanced Snap Layouts, Live Captions throughout the entire OS, improved touch gestures, and even a brand-new Xbox controller bar. Additionally, it makes a number of significant accessibility enhancements and signals a change in how Microsoft views new features. Almost every Windows user will find something new in this.
Our PCs will now be “easier and safer to use,” according to the update, said Panos Panay, chief product officer of Windows and Devices at Microsoft. The new software started rolling out to users in more than 190 countries on Tuesday. However, what is it that awaits you on the other side of that update? What happens if it isn’t compatible with your computer?
Here are the things you need to know about Windows’ changes.
Many small adjustments and changes that only a true power user would notice. However, some of the modifications made by Microsoft in this area are a little more obvious than others, and some may even be more significant. You might want to keep an eye out for some of these:
#1. System-wide live captioning. Windows 11 will attempt to transcribe anything you’re supposed to hear for you on-screen, including videos, podcasts, and live radio feeds. Features like these are more prevalent on smartphones than on computers, which is thankfully beginning to change. These features can be extremely helpful to the hard of hearing and people who leave subtitles on all the time. (Apple’s macOS Ventura software update will have a function similar to this.)
#2. Startup menu customization. The Start menu in Windows 11 now displays a mixture of files and programs that it believes you should view, as well as any apps you may have “pinned” there for quick access. However, you’ll be able to tell Windows which you want to see more of in this update.
#3. PC voice control. Voice Access, a feature that Microsoft refers to as a “preview,” was created to enable users to interact with computers by spoken commands rather than keystrokes or mouse clicks.
#4. New touch gestures. These new motions, such as swiping up to launch the Start menu, may make it easier for you to use Windows if your computer has a touch screen or can convert into a tablet.
#5. Built-in camera effects. Some of you will be able to use new “studio” effects to change your appearance on video conversations and streams without relying on the capabilities included into third-party apps, however not all PCs will support this. (For example, consider blurring your background or adjusting your video to make it appear as though you are making eye contact.)
Security Upgrade
Without some security upgrades, the Windows 11 2022 Update wouldn’t be a genuine Windows update. With this most recent version, Microsoft is introducing Smart App Control, a new function intended to prevent scripting attacks or the installation of untrusted programs. However, in order to use this specific feature, you must perform a clean installation of Windows 11 because Microsoft wants to make sure no untrusted apps are currently operating on the device.
How to Get the Upgrade
Check the Windows Update section in the Settings app on your computer to see if you can obtain the update if you’re already running the most recent version of Windows 11. And don’t panic if the update notice doesn’t appear right away; according to Microsoft, the “measured and staged rollout” process might take some time and sometimes depends on when the firm decides your PC is “ready.”
But what if Windows 10 is still installed on your computer?
First off, I want to say that I’m not ashamed of that because I am. Additionally, there’s a good chance the Windows Update area of your Settings program will inform you if your PC can run this new software.
However, the truth is that not all Windows 10 computers can be upgraded to Windows 11. (Many people, including me, attribute it to tighter hardware security standards.) And it’s quite obvious that Microsoft wants you to spend money on a brand-new computer based on how frequently it mentions new PC models when announcing major updates like these.
Sure, go for it if that’s what you were planning to do anyhow. But if your current PC still meets all of your requirements, resist the urge to upgrade solely to use new software. According to Microsoft, support for Windows 10 will continue through October 2025, and this will include frequent upgrades that add new features in addition to security patches.
